In response to reaction regarding the recognition, the University of Richmond‘s Jepson School of Leadership Studies hosted a forum for students to share their voice. According to The Collegian, 45 students attended. One of the responses from staff:

Zivi said students’ perspective was important for faculty to hear.

“The award has been given, the response has been what it’s been,” she said. “I think many of us would apologize, but the thing we have to do, whatever side of the issue you’re on, is talk about these things.”

In a followup letter to the editor, student Kadeem Fyffe, shared his feelings on being welcome at UofR.

…I really don’t feel safe here. I repeat: As a student at the University of Richmond, I do not feel welcome, respected or safe at all. How could this be, with that wonderful Richmond Promise we all love to talk about? My identities as a “black,” “gay,” “male,” “UR student” are all protected and “included” on paper, but yet I am silenced daily by this university, the administration and my fellow students. Silencing is wrong, oppressive, and can be detrimental to one’s mental health/stability and overall well-being. I am included and protected on paper, but where is the action, where is my protection!?

Related Stories

As of January 1, 2019, the University of Richmond began offering trans-inclusive healthcare coverage under the university’s medical plan. According to the human resources page of the university’s website, this includes gender-affirming surgery and related services. The healthcare coverage development was announced via SpiderBytes, a daily email digest sent to faculty, staff, and students at the university on [...]